The Nintendo Switch 2 is Almost Here! How to Still Snag Yours Before June 5th, Level Up Your Gaming! Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Guide as Launch Day Looms

The gaming world is abuzz, and the excitement is palpable: the Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, officially launching on June 5, 2025! While the initial wave of pre-orders for the highly anticipated console has already swept through retailers, securing a unit remains a top priority for eager fans. If you're looking to get your hands on Nintendo's next-generation hybrid, here's everything you need to know about the current pre-order landscape and what to expect as launch day rapidly approaches.

The Rush for the Switch 2: A Pre-Order Frenzy

Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 first opened in the US and Canada on April 24, following an earlier rollout in the UK on April 8. As expected, demand was immense, with consoles selling out within minutes at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and GameStop. Restocks have been sporadic and fleeting, making the hunt for a pre-order akin to a mini-game in itself. Nintendo's own My Nintendo Store also offered invites to select Nintendo accounts, prioritizing long-time Switch Online members.

This rapid sell-out underscores the immense anticipation for the Switch 2, which promises a significant leap forward in performance and features. Gamers who managed to snag a pre-order are counting down the days, while others are meticulously tracking restock alerts and preparing for the launch day rush.

What to Expect on Launch Day (June 5, 2025)

For those who missed the pre-order window, launch day is your next best bet! Many retailers are gearing up for the June 5 release with both online and in-store stock:

  • Best Buy: Many Best Buy locations will hold midnight launches for pre-order pickups, and importantly, will also have consoles available for purchase for those who didn't pre-order (while supplies last). They're even planning "Switch 2 Summer Gaming Events" at select locations, offering hands-on time with the console and potential opportunities for in-store purchases.
  • Target: Target has confirmed that Switch 2 consoles will be available in-store only on June 5. They're also planning special launch events at select stores. If you miss out on June 5, Target will begin selling Switch 2 online the following day, June 6.
  • GameStop: GameStop will also have additional units available in stores and online at launch, alongside midnight launch events for pre-order pickups.
  • Walmart: While Walmart did take pre-orders, they haven't yet announced specific launch day plans for in-store or online sales of new stock. However, if you pre-ordered by a certain time, Walmart is guaranteeing launch day delivery.
  • Staples: Select Staples stores will have Switch 2 units for sale in-store on June 5, operating on a first-come, first-served basis with a limit of one console per customer.
  • Costco: Costco will begin selling the Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle on June 5, but it's currently unclear if in-store units will be available that day or if sales will primarily be online. A membership is required to shop at Costco.
  • Nintendo Stores (NYC & San Francisco): The two official Nintendo Stores in the US will be holding launch events on June 4. Entry is first-come, first-served, and doesn't guarantee a console, but it's an opportunity for fans to be part of the celebration.
  • Amazon: As of now, Amazon did not take pre-orders for the Switch 2 and doesn't have it listed, so it's unlikely to be a source for launch day consoles.

It's highly recommended to check individual retailer websites for specific store hours, availability, and any updated information as June 5 draws closer. Lining up early for in-store purchases is likely to be a common strategy for those determined to get their hands on a Switch 2 on day one.

Pricing and Bundles

The Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449.99 (approximately ₹38,500 INR) for the standalone console. A special Mario Kart World bundle is also available for $499.99. For UK buyers, the console starts at £395.99. These prices represent a notable increase from the original Switch's launch price, reflecting the significant hardware upgrades.

The console comes with the new Joy-Con 2 controllers, a dock, an HDMI cable, a USB-C charging cable, and an AC adapter. While the console price itself has remained as announced, Nintendo has indicated that accessory prices have seen some adjustments due to "changing market conditions."

Key Features and Specifications of the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 is packed with enhancements designed to deliver a superior gaming experience:

  • Vivid Display: A larger 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with HDR10 support and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) up to 120 Hz, offering more immersive handheld gaming.
  • Enhanced Performance: Powered by a custom NVIDIA T239 processor with 1,536 CUDA cores and 12 GB of LPDDR5X memory. This means smoother frame rates, sharper visuals, and faster loading times.
  • 4K Output in TV Mode: The updated dock supports up to 4K resolution at 60 fps (for compatible games and TVs) and 120 fps at 1080p/1440p resolutions, bringing console-level visuals to your big screen.
  • Reimagined Joy-Con 2 Controllers: These magnetically attaching controllers now offer "mouse controls" in compatible games and feature HD Rumble 2 for more nuanced haptic feedback, along with a new "C Button" for GameChat.
  • GameChat: A new feature that allows seamless voice and even video chat (with a compatible USB-C camera) with friends, making online multiplayer more interactive. An open-access period for GameChat is available until March 31, 2026, after which a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required.
  • Increased Storage: 256 GB of internal UFS storage (up from the original Switch's 32 GB), expandable via the new microSD Express cards (up to 2 TB) for faster data access.
  • Backwards Compatibility: The Switch 2 will play both physical and digital Nintendo Switch games. Some existing Switch titles may even receive "Switch 2 Editions" or upgrade packs for enhanced experiences.
  • New Games: Launch titles include "Mario Kart World" and "Donkey Kong Bananza," with "Pokémon Legends: Z-A" and "Metroid Prime 4: Beyond" confirmed for later in 2025.
    Enhanced versions of existing games like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" and "Tears of the Kingdom" are also coming.

The Indian Market: Grey Market Availability Expected

While Nintendo has not yet announced an official launch for the Nintendo Switch 2 in India, industry insiders suggest the console will very likely be available through the grey market, as was the case with the original Switch. Traders are already preparing to stock units, with some customers even placing deposits. Expect prices in the grey market to be significantly higher than the US retail price, potentially ranging from ₹45,000 to ₹55,000 initially. Should Nintendo officially launch in India later, prices would likely settle around ₹45,000–₹48,000.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to be a significant player in the gaming landscape of 2025. With its enhanced capabilities and exciting new features, it's clear why demand is so high. If you're hoping to be among the first to experience it, keep a close eye on retailer stock, prepare for swift action, and get ready for a new era of Nintendo gaming!